Film Production in Austin – Getting Started
Why Austin?
Austin was named one of MovieMaker Magazine’s "Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker in 2026", ranking fifth out of 25 cities in North America and placing as the top city in Texas for moviemakers:
- No rental/reservation fees for filming on City property
- Up to 2 free police officers, if the production meets the criteria to receive incentives
- Dedicated staff to help navigate any film issues
- Deep pool of seasoned crew and production staff
- Creative, film-friendly community
Film Production Requirements
The City does not require a universal film permit to film in Austin; however, specific permits may be required if a production occurs in the right-of-way, in a City park, at the airport, or under other circumstances.
Determine if a permit is required for your production by contacting the City’s creative industries ombudsman, Keyla Castellanos, at film@austintexas.gov or calling 512-974-1000.
For general information on film production in Austin, visit the Austin Film Commission, a division of Visit Austin which provides resources to film and television productions in the Austin area. The Commission supplies referrals to local crew, equipment and support services, and location assistance. For details, contact Brian Gannon at 512-583-7230.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please note: Additional permit applications or fees may apply based on the scope of your production.
- When do I need a film permit?
If a production occurs on the right-of-way, in a City park, at the airport, in the library or under City of Austin jurisdiction. The Film Production in Austin – City Permits webpage provides useful information on obtaining filming permits. For additional information on filming locations in Austin, visit the Austin Film Commission.
- Which permits are required to film?
Please see the Types of Permits required based on your film location.
- When should I submit a film permit application?
Please submit 7 or more days in advance of the requested filming start date.
- What are the fees associated with filming?
Please review the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Film Fee Schedule.
- Is insurance required as part of the permit?
Yes, insurance is required except for student filming. Requirements are found here: Filming Insurance (PDF).
- Do I need a right-of-way and B-roll permit for filming?
Yes, please go to Right of Way Permits: Film.
- How do I apply for a right-of-way film permit?
The Right of Way Permits: Film webpage has detailed information on the requirements. Please contact TPW OSE at 512-974-6501 or TPWFilmPermits@austintexas.gov.
- How do I apply for a film permit at a City of Austin park?
To determine if the location you requested has availability and to get approval of the dates you specified, fill out the Application for Filming/Commercial Photography. You can find additional information and requirements at Filming & Photo Production Shoots .
Use these Location Tools to look up your location:
- Do I need a fire permit for my film?
If your production involves activities that could affect fire or life safety, please contact the Austin Fire Marshal's Office before filming. Early coordination helps ensure a safe production, prevents delays, and allows us to coordinate with other City departments when necessary. Please review Special Events: Film & Commercial Production and contact AFDSpecialEvents@austintexas.gov.
- What are the Austin Police Department filming requirements?
APD requires a APD Film Application submitted allowing at least 5 business days for approval. For direct help contact email APDSpecialEvents@austintexas.gov.
- Do I need a permit if I am filming with a drone?
Yes, please contact APDSpecialEvents@austintexas.gov directly and fill out the form here Austin Police Department (APD) Special Events and follow their processes at Austin Police Film Permit Requirements .
- What is required if my production includes special effects or hazardous scenes, use of weapons, a vehicle chase, crash scene, or simulated emergency?
The Austin Fire Marshal's Office and Austin Police should review your plans before filming. Please contact AFDSpecialEvents@austintexas.gov and APDSpecialEvents@austintexas.gov.
- My film is entirely on private property. Do I still need a film permit?
Yes, filming on private property does not automatically exempt a production from fire safety requirements. Please submit an application to determine requirements.
Still have questions?
We are available to help answer any immediate questions and ensure your production is successful. If you need assistance determining if a review or permit is required, please contact us before filming. Early coordination helps prevent delays and ensures your production complies with applicable requirements. Please contact us via email film@austintexas.gov or at 512-974-1000 for film permitting questions.
Please contact the Austin Film Commission at film@visitaustin.org for Austin area filming assistance with locations, studio facilities, local crew, vendor referrals, and production incentives available to projects filming.